Super Dad wins national competition

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Local Dad of two and carer, Philip Robinson, has been crowned ‘Dad of the Year’ after being nominated by his loving family in the national competition run by Sanctuary Housing.

Philip, who turns 50 in September, was nominated by his wife for his dedication, fun-loving attitude and support for his daughter Charlotte. Charlotte, aged 19, has severe learning and neurological disabilities and needs round-the-clock support.

Every day, Philip rolls up his sleeves and ignores his painful knee injury to become ‘Superdad’ for the Robinson family. No task is too big for Sanctuary’s Dad of the Year, with Philip becoming master chef, DIY guru, inventive night time story-teller, and a supportive father who helps his daughter grow, learn and thrive.

Lisa, wife to Sanctuary’s competition winner, said: “My hubby is a fantastic dad to both of our children but more importantly to Charlotte. Charlotte idolises Phil and is a daddy’s girl through and through – whether she’s being pushed in her wheelchair on walks or to being read a bedtime story, she always wants her dad. The pair of them together are bonkers and are constantly giggling, which is beautiful to hear.

“As a family, we've shared some very difficult and frightening times with Charlotte's health, and he’s always remained strong for me, our son and Charlotte throughout – he is our rock. He does so much for all of us, and never complains, and this why I had to nominate him, much to his embarrassment. He’s an amazing Husband, Dad and Grandad and our family would be lost without him."

Philip added: “Thank you to everyone at Sanctuary for the Virgin Experience prize. I can’t believe I’ve won or that Lisa nominated me – I love my family and I would do anything for them and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Yvonne Crinean, Sanctuary’s operations manager for the Midlands, continued: “Philip puts his family first in everything that he does, which makes him a worthy-winner of the nationwide competition. I really hope Philip enjoys the Virgin Experience prize as he thoroughly deserves it.”

Sanctuary Dad of the Year gave Sanctuary residents across the country the opportunity to award a special Dad in their life a £50 Virgin Experience day. Residents could nominate a Dad, Uncle, Grandad or even a big brother or cousin who has made a difference to their life, neighbourhood or community.